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Testimonials

"After many months at The Village dealing with a serious illness, I will soon be returning home. I owe a great debt of thanks to the people whose attention and kindness made me feel welcomed and cared for in assisted living here, especially Carol and Tammy in the office, Leslie, the head nurse, and med. tech. Shari. I will not forget you."

Sophia S.
May 2023

"My Father has been a resident of The Village for 2 1/2 years. Over that time he has gone through a number of health issues and a lot of personal changes in his life. During this time, the staff at the Village have been nothing but FANTASTIC!! From Nikki, to Suzette and Carol and Leslie they have been supportive, accommodating and loving. My dad feels well cared for and valued. Our entire family is so so appreciative for all the good care that our dad receives from the entire staff at the Village. We know he is safe and in good hands."

David C.
April 2023

"I can't express how very happy we have been with our choice of the Village at WRJ for our parents. From the very first moment, we have been so impressed. It was very difficult to convince my mother that this was where she needed to be. She just wasn't "ready". Tammy let me know that everyone would work with us to make this transition as easy as possible. Tammy, Carol, and Suzette made the move in day an easy one. They worked as a seamless team. Louis is incredibly supportive and encouraging. He never fails to greet us by name and let us know how things are going. During the round table meeting with the staff, Nicky immediately reassured us that what we were feeling and fearing was completely normal and to be expected. They have been with us every step of the way. I am blown away by how everyone knows my parents by name and they are all truly eager to help and support them. Carol has been in constant contact via text and phone calls to let me know how things are going and checking in on me. I would love to name each and every person I have met, because everyone has truly been so very caring. It is very apparent that everyone at the Village loves what they are doing and they love the people they care for. As I told Carol, I feel as if we have gained a new family. Thank you!"

Mary Jo W.
April 2023

"My mother resided in the memory care unit at The Village at White River Junction for the last three years of her life. She enjoyed a large private room, good food, and most importantly, attentive and loving care from the staff. Her mobility issues in her final year were especially challenging, as The Village is not equipped for residents who are completely non-ambulatory, but the staff were willing to work with the family to overcome them with the help of a special wheelchair. We were very happy that our mother was able to spend her last days there. To re-iterate, the memory care staff, especially, were lovely to interact with, and unquestionably made our mother's life significantly richer and more easeful, through their attention."

Michael D.
April 2023

"First, an overall thank you for offering such a warm, welcoming place for my dad to live at this point in his life.

I’d also like to offer some specific points that have been particularly appreciated:

1) When my dad first moved in, Carol suggested that we reserve the Smith & Sons kitchen for a private family lunch. We would not have otherwise thought of this so soon after arriving, but it turned out to be a very special family time, especially with my kids there too. Also, the space was perfect, light-filled and large enough not only to host our group but to feel genuinely like a home.

2) The lovely common spaces -such as the library , the rooftop pub and terrace, and the Sunflower room have all added so much to his quality of life. My dad had places to be and enjoy that were easy to access and also a real change of scenery and activity . The tasteful decor and lighting made them very pleasant and calming, and it was so nice to be able to visit while also looking out on the activity of WRJ with the hills beyond.

3) The staff has been pleasant and responsive. For instance, I especially appreciate the extra effort made by Tim, a nurse in memory care who tried to help my dad after my mom kept running into bureaucratic hurdles regarding an important medical issue by calling them himself and then making key suggestion that driving to office to try to get response in person might help, which seemed to help break logjam and calmed my mom down too. While that might seem obvious, it was hard to focus after going around in administrative circles repeatedly on such an important issue for my dad so was good advice to get.

4) Finally, thank you also to the chef and team for making such great food! "

Karin M.
April 2023

"When it became too hard for me to take care of my husband, I was glad that the Village was able to do that. My husband is receiving wonderful care and attention from everybody at the Village. The nurses and caregivers are on top of what his needs are. My husband is receiving stimulation in that he can wheel his wheelchair and find books in the library with my son being with him and also can bring him in his wheelchair to many places in the Village, for instance the art gallery. One Bayada caregiver brought him to the fitness room where he thoroughly enjoyed the exercise bike.

In addition, Tammy Latvis has been outstanding in that she has supported me in all my questions on issues which have come up.

I can heartily recommend The Village."

I.McEwen
March 2023

"The Village is a terrific place! It is clean, the rooms are a nice size, the staff is friendly and caring. My mother is safe, no longer wandering, her meds are properly managed and she is eating well with 24/7 support. She is happy there, comfortable with the routine and loves mingling with the other residents and staff as well as participating in some of the activities!"

Denise B.
March 2022

"My parents moved to the Village from another facility. The transition went well, the staff are welcoming and kind, the food is good, and there are many activities for them to choose from. Highly recommend!"

Susan P.
November 2021

"We moved both of my parents to The Village from another facility and are so happy we did. The Village is a family and we have peace of mind knowing they are so well taken care of by people who truly care about them.

All of the staff are great but I have to mention Carol Kolenski, Move In Coordinator. Carol is incredible - professional, responsive and caring. She played a big part in our decision to move our parents after we met her and took a tour. More importantly, my parents both love her. Dad recently mentioned that she adds so much happiness to his day."

Sarah I.
November 2021

"I moved my mother to The Village four months ago.... She is very happy at the Village at White River Junction. She raves about the food and is very happy with the staff. They keep her very busy which she loves. She has gone to restaurants, shopping and even a horse show. They made a big deal of her 95th birthday with a delicious luncheon. The facilities are clean and beautiful and there is always something to do."

Susan F.
July 2021

"Thank you to Jodi and all the Directors/Staff for making my father's transition successful! We had no choice but to move my father during the State COVID mandates. The Village has tremendous protective protocols for residents, staff and building. I don't think twice about my father's safety or care, he is very happy there."

Maria A.
July 2021

"I moved my mom here from AZ from a very elite retirement community. We were a bit nervous about the move as the AZ facility was very posh. the AZ rooms and food were fabulous. My father passed so we wanted to move my mom east to be closer to family. We searched all over VT, NH and MA for a place she would be comfortable. Much to my surprise we picked WRJ, VT. That said, my mom is thriving and doing much better than in AZ. She has met very genuine friends.

The nurses and medical providers are super nice and personable. They accept my mom for her attributes as well as limitations. Carol the director of admissions has gone above and beyond to meet our questions and concerns even after we signed the contract. The food is great and WRJ is thriving these days. She can go on trips and out to dinner or stay home and socialize with family and friends. I could not be more thrilled with our choice after weeks of searching and meeting with various providers. I would highly recommend The Village at WRJ."

Tina A.
August 2021

"We came from another facility and The Village has been a wonderful change. My Mother is in the memory care unit. The staff is enthusiastic, attentive and joyful and more importantly responsive to families concerns. The facility is beautifully appointed with wonderful amenities that support both residents and families. The activities are both enriching to family members who attend and fun for residents. The food is very good. But the real test is my Mother. She never expressed satisfaction in our prior facility but regularly tells us she is happy here. All the other residents seem happy as well which means they are kind and friendly to one another. I would highly recommend The Village."

Sally B.
August 2021

"My husband with dementia moved to Memory Care at The Village two weeks ago. He has been welcomed, as have I, by a warm and caring staff who are friendly and helpful and eager to make the transition from our home to The Village as easy as possible. His living space is lovely, the meals are well prepared and delicious, and he is enjoying getting to know other residents and staff members. As a gregarious, outgoing person who suffered from lack of social contact during the COVID isolation, he is now enjoying a more normal life with interactions with staff and fellow residents. As his full time caregiver for the past 18 months, I am now getting more sleep at night and am comforted knowing he is safe and very well cared for. And, by the way, the Village is an absolutely beautiful nearly new facility with more amenities than you could imagine!"

Donna N.
July 2021

"My Mom has resided at The Village for 2 years and I could not imagine a more perfect place for her to be, as she navigates her way through the many stages and challenges of dementia. The facility is beautiful, the staff is incredibly compassionate and attentive, and most importantly she is happy, safe and secure in “her home”. Her comfortable studio apartment, the exceptional food, daily stimulating and engaging activities, and caring staff make her feel she is where she should be and wants to be. The connection and communication between staff and our family allows us to be contact when we are not able to be with her, in person. And I would be remiss if I did not commend the entire staff on their exceptional perseverance and care during the COVID pandemic. How fortunate we are to have such an exceptionally wonderful place for my Mom to reside."

Bobbi D..
July 2021

"My wife and I have lived at the Village at White River Junction for over a year and a half now I have been deeply impressed by the dedication and enthusiasm of all the staff, from office to maintenance, nursing, housekeeping, and culinary, for the welfare and comfort of residents. Not withstanding the stresses and strains imposed by the sudden and unexpected spread of COVID-19 in early 2020, and the need for new restrictions and procedures, we were all well looked after and kept both safe as well as comfortable throughout.

Proximity to emergency and health service as well as well as the facilities of the town having a great advantage throughout.

The indoors exercise room, library, music room, and gallery have been popular for all who can make use of them.

With changes in the weather through spring and summer and the opportunities for outdoor activities, we’ve been able to avail of well-planned outings and picnics, open air leisure time in the compact garden, and penthouse terrace. And finally, facilities for receiving guests and family for visits and meals have been a very welcome revival in recent weeks."

Jivat T.
July 2021

"There are so many things that we love about The Village at White River Junction; that they are too numerous to mention, but the main thing that we think that everyone should know about is that the staff is exceptional. Everyone greets us with a smile and “hello”. They are terrific. They will do anything for you. The staff is simply wonderful. We appreciate the fact that our privacy and dignity are always honored and respected.

We also enjoy the Smith and Sons kitchen for family gatherings and the cooking demonstrations are one of our favorite activities. We work out in the Latham Gym every day and attend tai-chi classes as well. Sometimes we just like to relax and read in the Landmark Library. The food at The Village at White River Junction is very good with a variety of choices.
We are so content here at The Village!"

Edwin & Doris F.
July 2021

"After my wife passed away, my children and I had a lot of conversations about what would be best for me. I had many options to consider and I decided The Village fit my needs the best. I enjoy my new friendships and my children and friends like coming to visit me here. For me, The Village exceeds expectations."

Bob D.
June 2021

"Dear Carol, please forgive me, this letter is long overdue. I have wanted to reach out and thank you and your associates since the day you so warmly welcomed my wife, Gloria, into your family at The Village, White River Junction. You were just what Gloria needed to make her feel comfortable during the move-in transition. Then your staff took over showering Gloria with compassionate care, loving support and genuine affection, making her feel as a loving member of her new large integrated family. I would like to sincerely thank you and your staff for your continued support and care of Gloria. Thanks to all of you I sleep very well knowing she's in your very capable hands."

Joseph R.
October 2020

Senior Living Leadership Team

Experienced leaders create a culture of caring.

Nikki Fortier

Executive Director

Executive Director Nikki Fortier has been with The Village at White River Junction since before there were walls and has held multiple director-level positions over the past 3 years. She has lived in the Upper Valley for her whole life out of a love for this area. Well-versed in all aspects of The Village, Nikki enjoys engaging with our residents and bringing a smile to their faces. “COVID-19 has dealt seniors and their families a huge blow and I look forward to leading the way to help The Village emerge from the pandemic and to see that our residents are able to live full lives again.”

Tammy Latvis

Director Of Sales and Marketing

As an Upper Valley resident for more than 27 years, Tammy has been an active member of our community. As the former owner of an award-winning women’s fitness franchise, she worked with women of all ages, and particularly enjoyed helping her senior women improve their lives through better mobility and fitness. Her positive upbeat personality brings an energy and enthusiasm to the Village team as well as to our residents. Her civic and charitable contributions include serving as former Chair of The Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce, Board Member of Maynard House, PTA President at Dothan Brook School, as a Girl Scout troop leader, President of the Hartford High School Booster Club. Tammy also served as a religious Ed teacher and as a member of the council for Saint Anthony’s in White River Junction. Tammy has walked this journey with the support of her husband Phil and 3 children, Samantha, Matthew and Jennifer. This she states is her greatest success.

Suzette Barbour

Director of Health Services

Suzette Barbour, CARN is the Director of Health Services with over 30 years of experience in the healthcare field. Suzette attended Norwich University where she received her RN in 1993. She has worked in many different settings including med-surge, drug rehabilitation, independent living, assisted living, memory, and skilled care in both a clinical and administrative capacity. She is committed to working alongside The Village at White River Junction’s outstanding care team, residents and their loved ones to cultivate and ensure an excellent senior care experience where all can feel at home and be proud of each other as they work, live, and thrive together. Suzette was born in Hanover, NH and raised in Gilford, CT and Thetford, VT where she has lived for the past several years . She is a proud mother to Keisha, Keagen, and Shawn, and grandmother to 7. Suzette enjoys spending her free time with her family and her dogs Rosco and Bourbon.

Russell Hardeman

Director of Life Enrichment

Prior to his move to Vermont in May of 2022, Russell served as the Residential Programming Director for Cumberland Senior Living Solutions at Brookdale Greenhill in Nashville, Tennessee. There he oversaw all Assisted Living programming, activities, outings, and large events hosted for residents and staff. Prior to that he worked as the Activities Director for more than eight years at nursing facilities throughout Shelby County and the Memphis metropolitan region. Russell graduated from Jackson State University with an MSEd in Counseling and a BA in Psychology. He is currently completing his MPA at Strayer University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA. He belongs to the honor society Alpha Chi and the (APA) American Society for Public Administration. Russell is a classically trained vocalist and enjoys all types of music, but especially opera.

Joelle Ash

Director of Culinary Services

Joelle joined The Village at White River Junction shortly after its opening in 2019 as a line cook. Her career has encompassed over 26 years of experience in the culinary industry. Joelle’s love of cooking began when she was became a grill cook at 14 years old and has evolved from there. She worked for many years at Lui Lui restaurant and also served as manager at The Farmer’s Table for several years prior to joining The Village. As Culinary Director, Joelle is passionate about serving good, quality, local food to our residents and guests. She is famous among residents for her delectable scones! Joelle lives with her husband Josh and two daughters, Jonelle and Jadelynn, in Grantham, NH near her family’s 12th generation farm. When not serving our seniors, Joelle enjoys time baking with her family, outdoor activities, and sharing her passion for horses with her daughters.

Geoff Tuller

Director of Plant Operations

Geoff has more than 12 years of experience in Building, Landscape and Grounds Maintenance, including leadership roles as Maintenance Manager for Mountain Valley Treatment Center and Director of Maintenance for a local senior living community. His diverse skills and experience, coupled with proven supervisory expertise, have uniquely prepared Geoff for the position of Director of Plant Operations for The Village at White River Junction. He is excited to be working with a team to manage day-to-day interior and exterior building and grounds maintenance throughout the community—including the beautifully landscaped gardens on four different floors.

Samantha Tracey

Business Office Manager

Samantha Tracey has worked in healthcare since 2013 and at The Village since 2019. She has held several roles during her tenure here, including Director of Life Enrichment, Health Services Unit Coordinator, and now Business Office Manager. She is currently pursuing a degree in Business and in her spare time enjoys being outdoors, reading, and spoiling her Turkish rescue dog, Mali. Sam is enthusiastically dedicated to helping The Village overcome post-pandemic labor issues through creative recruitment efforts. She also is passionate about employee retention through a multitude of staff appreciation efforts.

Kathleen March

Director of Memory Care

Kathleen March is Director of Memory Care. She received her BSW from Franklin Pierce College and has held different positions in the area including case manager for long term care and working as a case manager for developmentally delayed individuals. She has also worked at several long term care communities with a focus on life enrichment. Kathleen was born and raised in Claremont, NH where she lives with her husband, son and daughter. She also has 3 cats. In her free time, she enjoys reading and being with her family.

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